Dubai shopping mall reports record footfall in 2017

Ibn Battuta Mall, one of Nakheel Malls’ shopping destinations, welcomed a record 21 million visitors in 2017.

An influx of tourists, new residential developments in surrounding areas and an enhanced collection of tenants all contributed to the mall’s highest ever annual footfall, the company said in a statement.

Omar Khoory, managing director of Nakheel Malls said: “2017 was a tremendous year of growth for Nakheel Malls. At Ibn Battuta Mall, the surge in tourists and tenants, and expansion of new residential developments in surrounding areas all led to a record year, with more 21 million visitors. And with more expansions to Ibn Battuta Mall under way, this figure is set to grow further this year, and beyond."

He said the retail unit of Dubai developer Nakheel has over 17 million square feet of leasable space in operation or in the pipeline.

"We continue to focus on delivering world-class experiences, at a growing number of locations across Dubai, through a combination of unmatched entertainment, retail and dining destinations,” he added.

Seventy three percent of visitors are UAE residents, including Emiratis, Arab, Asian and western expats; the remaining 17 percent are tourists.